Thanks to Elon and the Times-News for healthcare forum

Iím writing to thank Elon University and the Times-News for sponsoring the Healthcare Forum. More than 200 people attended the event and the audience questions were thoughtful. All the questions are located at the following website: http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/special_programs/communityconnections/questions.xhtml

What I found as a panelist, was there are areas of agreement among the diverse opinions. Healthcare is a moral obligation to citizens, the need to balance government versus individual accountability and the need for reforming our mental health system.

Especially gratifying was the students ó the panelists, those in the audience and those who broadcast the event. It is overwhelming to listen to the future leaders of our country speak with such passion and intelligence about a very timely topic. Kendall Crouther, Miles Grunvald, Maria Restuccio, Marissa Rurka, and Kaitlin Stober were all excellent examples of what is right with our young people. I am confident they will be good stewards of our commitment to healthcare improvement and redesign.

Again, a major thank you to Elon and the Times-News for hosting this event.